A migraine headache can be extremely painful. Some people find that the only way to get through one is to take to bed until it passes. Here is some helpful information about migraine headaches including tips on how to possibly avoid them.
Cause of Migraine Headaches
Compared to a regular type of tension headache, which is generally short lived, a migraine headache is much more painful and severe and can last much longer. According to Dr. Paul S. Auerbach, author of Medicine for the Outdoors, "It is caused by painful dilation and constriction of small arteries in the head."
Symptoms of Migraine Headaches
There are many symptoms associated with migraine headaches. These include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, sensitivity to light, runny nose, and sometimes the feeling of weakness in an arm or an leg. Some sufferers also note that at the onset of a migraine, there is diminished peripheral vision along with strange scents.
Migraine Headache Treatment
Medications that can be effective include sumatriptan, (Imitrex,) and zolmitriptan, (Zomig.) Migranal is a prescription nasal spray that works to constrict arteries, but, should only be used under the care of a physician. Some migraine sufferers report success with oxygen therapy.
For people who prefer to avoid drugs for treatment, some people have reported migraine relief through both acupuncture and acupressure. As stress is one of the major causes of migraines, some sufferers rely on meditation to reduce their stress levels as meditation has been shown to have many positive effects on the body. Further information on meditation can be found in the article Medical Benefits of Meditation.
How to Prevent Migraines
Certain steps can be taken to try to avoid migraines. If possible, finding what triggers the migraine can help a person avoid a migraine in the future. Alcohol, caffeine, MSG, and smoking are known triggers for migraines. Other triggers include high altitude, lack of sleep, stress, and noxious odors.
Pain from a migraine headache can be quite intense. Leading a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the chances of getting migraines. This includes avoiding toxins in the body, getting the proper amount of sleep, and exercise as exercise is a way to reduce stress.
If suffering from frequent migraines, consult a doctor for treatment and also to see if there is any preventative medication that can be taken. Consider meditation as a way to relax and reduce stress. If able to find what triggers the migraine, try to avoid the trigger in order to prevent the headaches.
Source:
- Medicine for the Outdoors, Paul S. Auerbach, M.D., (The Lyons Press,) 1999
Janis Masyk-Jackson - I'm here to seek out the truth about some of life's mysteries. There is nothing new about New Age beliefs. These are beliefs that have ...
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